Preserving the magic and wonder of childhood.
Our approach to early childhood education integrates methods from Charlotte Mason, Reggio Emelia and Forest School, all woven together in a content-rich, cumulative and coherent curriculum. We foster a strong academic foundation without sacrificing play, the outdoors or the magic of being little.
Whole - Child Development
Our curriculum supports the development of the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. We value the balance of academic growth, emotional well-being, and physical activity, promoting resilience and self-confidence.
Nature-Based Exploration
Inspired by Charlotte Mason's philosophy and Forest School principles, we emphasize the importance of nature study, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the beauty and wonder of the environment. Children connect with the rhythms of nature by celebrating the changing seasons through outdoor play, observation, and hands-on experiences. Students also have the opportunity to garden when seasonally appropriate, learning about planting, nurturing, and harvesting.
Our school is home to chickens, providing children with the chance to care for animals, understand responsibility, and appreciate the cycles of life. This deep connection to nature helps children develop a sense of responsibility toward the earth, while gaining valuable life skills and a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Creativity and Imagination
Drawing on Waldorf principles, we create an environment that encourages imaginative play, artistic expression, and storytelling. These experiences lay the foundation for critical thinking, emotional expression, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts..
Academic Foundation
We integrate Core Knowledge to ensure a solid academic foundation, providing children with age-appropriate exposure to language, math, science, and cultural concepts. Our approach builds curiosity and a strong desire to understand the world around them.
Child-led Exploration and Inquiry
Inspired by Reggio Emilia and Charlotte Mason, we believe that children are active participants in their own learning. Our classrooms are designed to foster curiosity and independence, allowing children to explore, ask questions, and discover the world around them at their own pace..
Character and Moral Education
In the spirit of Charlotte Mason’s approach, we prioritize the development of character by encouraging virtues like kindness, responsibility, respect, and gratitude. Our curriculum includes living books and real-world experiences that inspire children to engage thoughtfully and empathetically with the world.
Community and Family Engagement
We believe in building a strong sense of community where children, families, and educators collaborate to create a supportive and inclusive environment. Through shared experiences and events throughout the year, we invite families to engage with one another, celebrate the joys of learning, and connect with the larger community. Our gatherings give families the opportunity to share Sonnenblume’s goodness with friends, fostering relationships and promoting social responsibility as children learn the value of kindness, cooperation, and contributing to the greater good.
Respect for Each Child’s Pace
We honor the developmental stages of each child, recognizing that learning is a process, not a race. Whether through Waldorf’s emphasis on rhythm and routine or Charlotte Mason’s focus on habit training, we respect each child’s unique timeline for growth and development.